Sep 2, 2026, 03:30 AM UTC

Russian military forces conducted widespread combined strikes using cruise missiles, ballistic missiles, and drones across Ukraine, targeting civilian and energy infrastructure in Kyiv, Odesa, and Chernihiv. Officials confirmed multiple casualties, including 15 deaths following an attack on a shopping center in Kryvyi Rih. EU High Representative Kaja Kallas condemned the attack, stating it showed "the depravity of Russia".

In response, Ukrainian forces targeted a major Lukoil refinery inside Russian territory using long-range drones. Moscow separately noted that talks regarding a potential prisoner exchange remain ongoing. Meanwhile, the United Kingdom and France approved local production of Scalp cruise missiles inside Ukraine, as Italy reiterated its opposition to sending ground troops.

Sources: ANSA, Corriere della Sera, Il Sole 24 Ore, La Repubblica.

The United States Military Central Command launched airstrikes against two missile launchers on Larak Island in the Strait of Hormuz, marking the first direct American strikes on Iranian soil in a month. US President Donald Trump simultaneously demanded financial "compensations" from Tehran for past attacks against foreign opponents and domestic protesters.

Despite military action, parallel diplomatic efforts continue. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated Tehran would "immediately" return to its nuclear commitments if Washington respects their June agreement. Qatari mediators noted ongoing negotiations toward a bilateral deal, while Tehran reported an agreement with Oman on coordinates for a new navigation route through the Strait of Hormuz, provided external parties do not interfere.

Sources: Le Figaro, Le Monde, Le Soir, Libération, RTBF Info.

Former Ukrainian Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov has called for establishing legal frameworks to prepare for national elections after the conflict ends. Fedorov, who was removed from his cabinet role by President Volodymyr Zelensky in July, argued that defining election rules ahead of time is critical to ensure institutional stability once martial law is lifted.

Under current Ukrainian law, elections are prohibited while martial law remains in force due to ongoing security concerns and logistical hurdles. President Zelensky maintains that holding votes during active hostilities is unfeasible. However, Fedorov's proposals reflect a growing discussion among officials in Kyiv about the country's post-war governance and democratic transition.

Sources: Le Monde

Extreme heat continues across Western and Southern Europe as countries face recurring heatwaves, record temperatures, and rising mortality rates. France’s health ministry reported more than 7,300 excess deaths between May and July following 52 heatwave days recorded since mid-June. In Austria, meteorologists registered a national record high of 40.8 degrees Celsius in a suburb of Vienna.

Italy has entered its fourth heatwave of the year, prompting health authorities to extend red weather alerts across all 27 major cities. Temperatures reaching 40 degrees Celsius are expected to persist, with at least four heat-related deaths reported. The United Kingdom and France are preparing for additional hot spells alongside heightened wildfire and drought risks.

Sources: Aftenposten, Berlingske, DR, TV 2 Nyheter, VG (Verdens Gang)

The United States has launched new military strikes against Iranian targets near the Strait of Hormuz, ending a weeks-long lull in direct hostilities. According to US Central Command, the operations targeted Iranian missile launchers and rocket systems on Larak and Qeshm islands, as well as locations near Bandar Abbas. American military officials stated the action was taken to disrupt Iranian attempts to deploy naval mines and to counter threats against commercial vessels and US personnel in the region.

In response, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps fired ballistic missiles toward regional targets, including airbases in Jordan, where local air defenses intercepted eight projectiles. US President Donald Trump stated that the US would "hit hard" with further attacks, while Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian called for dialogue.

Sources: 8 Sidor, Dagens Industri, Dagens Nyheter, Svenska Dagbladet, Sydsvenskan.